The 12 Records Of Yule: #3 – Nat King Cole “The Magic of Christmas”
When the holiday season approaches, the familiar sounds of festive music begin to fill the air, and one album in particular stands out as a quintessential soundtrack to this time of year: Nat King Cole’s “The Magic of Christmas.” Released in 1960, this album represents not just a collection of holiday songs but a rich tapestry of musical history that continues to enchant listeners today. It is the only complete Christmas album by one of the most beloved voices of American music, and its centerpiece, “The Christmas Song,” is a staple that has become synonymous with the holiday spirit.
The Birth of “The Christmas Song”
The journey of “The Christmas Song,” commonly subtitled “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” began in 1945. It was a hot July that inspired songwriters Robert Wells and Mel Tormé to create a winter wonderland in musical form. Tormé later recounted how the song emerged from a desire to “stay cool by thinking cool.” He remembered seeing a few lines scribbled on Wells’s piano, capturing the essence of Christmas imagery: “Chestnuts roasting, Jack Frost nipping, Yuletide carols, folks dressed up like Eskimos.” In just 40 minutes, the pair crafted the song that would become one of the most performed holiday classics in history.
The Nat King Cole Trio first recorded “The Christmas Song” in June 1946, but it wasn’t until a second recording in August of the same year, featuring a string section, that the song truly found its voice. Despite objections from Cole’s label, Capitol Records, this version soared to the top of both the pop and R&B charts, solidifying its status as a holiday staple. Cole didn’t stop there; he recorded the song again in 1953 and later in 1961, with each iteration adding to the song’s legacy.
The Magic of Christmas Album
The 1960 release of “The Magic of Christmas” is a celebration of holiday cheer, featuring Cole’s smooth vocals accompanied by Ralph Carmichael’s lush arrangements. The album includes timeless classics like “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “The First Noel,” but it is “The Christmas Song” that truly shines as its centerpiece. This version, recorded in stereo, is often regarded as the definitive rendition, with a warmth and depth that encapsulates the essence of the season.
Upon its release, “The Magic of Christmas” quickly became the best-selling Christmas album of the 1960s, certified by the RIAA for shipments of over 6 million copies in the U.S. Its success was underscored when the album reached number one on Billboard’s Christmas Albums chart in 1963, remaining there for two weeks. The album’s enduring popularity is a testament to Nat King Cole’s ability to evoke emotion through his music, making listeners feel as though they are enveloped in the warmth of Christmas.
The Evolution of a Classic
The story of “The Christmas Song” is one of evolution and reimagining. Nat King Cole’s 1961 recording is now considered iconic and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1974. In 2022, the Library of Congress selected this version for preservation in the United States National Recording Registry, acknowledging its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. Cole’s smooth baritone and heartfelt delivery have made this song the most performed Christmas song of all time according to BMI, and its legacy continues to grow every holiday season.
Interestingly, the song has seen several covers since its inception, with pop tenor Eddy Howard being one of the first to record it on Majestic Records. Over the years, many artists have paid homage to Cole’s original, but none have captured the same magic as the man himself.
A Timeless Tradition
Listening to “The Magic of Christmas” is like stepping into a holiday wonderland where nostalgia and warmth intertwine. Its tracks evoke memories of family gatherings, festive decorations, and the joyous spirit of the season. Nat King Cole’s ability to weave a sense of comfort and joy through his music has made this album a cherished part of countless holiday traditions.
As we continue our journey through “The 12 Records of Yule,” Nat King Cole’s “The Magic of Christmas” stands as a beacon of holiday spirit, reminding us of the magic that music can bring to our lives. With each note, we are transported to a place of warmth and love, a sentiment that resonates deeply during the most wonderful time of the year. Stay tuned for our next entry, where we will explore another timeless classic that has shaped the sound of Christmas music.